Back

Red, White, and Blue With a View: Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks by Boat in Minnesota 2023

Jun. 28 2023 Events By Wayzata Marine

Share

Red, White, and Blue With a View: Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks by Boat in Minnesota 2023


One of the best things about owning a boat is getting a front row view to watch the fourth of July fireworks, seeing their reflections on the water are absolutely stunning.


Check out these boating safety tips and see the best spots in Minnesota to watch the fireworks by boat. 

Nearly 12 million registered boats across the country participate in 4th of July celebrations each year. To avoid boater gridlock and keep your crew safe:

  1. Be aware of boaters around you, there are sure to be an extra amount of people on the water celebrating the holiday 

  2. Be wary of boating and drinking, particularly when compounded by sun and a long day on the water.

  3. If you need spare life jackets for your extra July 4th stowaways, borrow one from the BoatUS Foundation’s Kids’ Life Jacket Loaner site.

  4. Keep your boat afloat! A good rule of thumb for boat capacity: make sure everyone has a seat. 

  5. Stay untangled & charged: TowBoatUS reports that many July 4th assistance calls are for anchor line dis entanglements and battery jumps.

  6. Paddle safe: Navigation lights apply to SUP boards. Stay visible and avoid congested boat areas.


Ready to make your plans? Read on for fireworks shows near you.


Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior - The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Chamber of Commerce produces and hosts the only public 4th of July fireworks event on the famous Lake Minnetonka. The show kicks off on Tuesday, July 4th at dusk, around 9:50 pm, on the south side of the lake in Excelsior Bay. Lake Minnetonka is one of the most popular lakes in the state with its close proximity to the Twin-Cities, so if you want a front row spot to the show it's best to get there early. Full schedule of events HERE.


St. Croix River, Stillwater - Celebrate independence day in the All-American historic river town of Stillwater! The City of Stillwater puts on a huge fireworks display over the St. Croix river and Historic Lift Bridge offering views from anywhere downtown and live music in Lowell Park and Pioneer Park. The fireworks show starts at dusk (approximately 10 pm). Live music from the St.Croix Jazz Orchestra goes from 7:00-9:00 PM. Rain date is July 5th. Full schedule of events HERE.


Lake Superior, Duluth - Fourth Fest at Bayfront Festival Park is the largest firework display in the upper Midwest. The show starts at 10:10 and goes until about 10:30 PM. If you plan to watch in the harbor it is important to note that The Minnesota Slip Bridge (the blue pedestrian bridge between the DECC and Canal Park) will be lowered and closed to marine traffic from 9 PM to 11:30 PM. The Aerial Lift Bridge will stay down and be closed to marine traffic from 7 PM until 11: 30 AM. Vessels that are able to pass under the bridge without requiring a lift are permitted to do so. Full schedule of events HERE.


Gull Lake, Nisswa - If family fun is what you’re after, then the Freedom Day Celebration Nisswa might be a perfect fit for you. The fireworks show will be launched on Monday, July 3rd at dusk from the Nisswa Community Center and will be visible from the northern part of the lake. There will also be a firework show on the 4th provided by Madden and Cragun’s Resorts starting around 10:30 PM.


White Bear Lake - With a population of nearly 25,000 WBL maintains its small-town character. The fourth of July fireworks show takes place during the town's annual summer ritual, Manitou Days. The firework’s show will be launched at dusk near West Park and Memorial Beach and will be visible from the northern part of the lake on July 4th. 


Grand Marais Harbor - Get away from the bustle of the city and enjoy what summer on the north shore has to offer. Fireworks over the Grand Marais Harbor will be launched around 10 pm on July 4th from Pokegama Golf Course.


Crosslake - The 53rd anniversary of Crosslake's annual Fourth of July fireworks display kicks off at 10:10 p.m. on July 1. View the fireworks from the shores of Cross Lake or on the water, and be sure to tune into Skeeter 101.5 FM shortly before dusk to enjoy this year's show choreographed to music.


Forest Lake - Find your favorite carnival games, rides and foods at the weekend celebration in Lakeside Memorial Park. Fireworks will be on display July 4 at 10 p.m.